Situation
In 2024, it is five years since psychological violence in intimate relationships was criminalised in Denmark. For the legislation to have a real effect, it is crucial that the population has a clear understanding of what psychological violence entails, what consequences it can have, and that it is punishable by law. To map Danes’ knowledge of psychological violence and their perceptions of intimate partner violence, Lev Uden Vold (Live Without Violence), in collaboration with Epinion, carried out a nationwide survey. The study covers both the population’s general awareness of psychological violence, their attitudes towards different forms of behaviour in relationships, and the prevalence of stereotypical perceptions of intimate partner violence.
Complication
Preventing and combating psychological violence involves a number of complex challenges. Psychological violence is difficult to identify because it rarely leaves visible traces and often takes place in private. This can make it difficult for both the victim-survivor and those around them to recognise when violence is taking place. At the same time, stereotypical perceptions of intimate partner violence can create barriers to victim-survivors seeking help, or to their experiences being acknowledged by those around them. A widespread perception is that a person who stays in an abusive relationship bears some responsibility for the violence, and that psychological violence only affects certain groups. A further challenge is a lack of awareness of the legislation. If the public does not know that psychological violence is punishable by law, this can affect whether the abuse is reported and whether the victim-survivor seeks support.
Recommendation
The study showed that there is a need for a strengthened effort to increase the public’s knowledge of psychological violence and to break down stereotypical perceptions. The majority of Danes are familiar with the concept of psychological violence, but many are unsure what it covers in practice, and four in ten do not know that it is punishable by law. In addition, the study shows that some forms of controlling behaviour are still considered acceptable in certain cases, particularly among younger Danes. The results can be used to strengthen public information efforts on psychological violence, clarify the boundaries between healthy and unhealthy behaviour in relationships, and increase awareness that psychological violence is punishable by law. A targeted effort could help ensure that more victim-survivors receive the support they need, and that the public increasingly recognises the seriousness of psychological violence in intimate relationships.
